Saving the World Through Wine

On February 22, Congressman Blumenauer spoke at the 2012 Oregon Wine Symposium, addressing more than 1200 wine growers, vintners, and associated vendors. He reminded them that Oregon's Land Use Planning Program's emphasis on farmland preservation has played a key role in their success and congratulated them for the rapid growth of their industry, which now contributes nearly $3 billion a year to Oregon's economy.

"Your environmental ethic, your small business savvy, your stewardship values, and your commitment to a healthy and sustainable workforce make you the Poster Child for Oregon values," Blumenauer said. He also urged them to become partners in efforts to reform the Farm Bill so that it shifts its priorities from commodities to real food and drink, increases research funding, puts more healthy food in school lunchrooms, and expands valuable conservation programs.